Disalcid

Pronounced: dye-SAL-sid
Generic name: Salsalate

Why is Disalcid prescribed?

Disalcid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis), and other rheumatic disorders (conditions that involve pain and inflammation in joints and the tissues around them).

Most important fact about Disalcid

Disalcid contains salicylate, an ingredient that may be associated with the development of Reye's syndrome (a disorder that causes abnormal brain and liver function). It occurs mostly in children who have taken aspirin or other medications containing salicylate to relieve symptoms of the flu or chickenpox. Do not take Disalcid if you have flu symptoms or chickenpox.

How should you take Disalcid?

Take Disalcid exactly as prescribed. Food may slow its absorption. However, your doctor may ask you to take Disalcid with food in order to avoid stomach upset.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Keep out of the reach of children.

Disalcid side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Disalcid.

• Side effects may include:
  Hearing impairment, nausea, rash, ringing in the ears, vertigo

Why should Disalcid not be prescribed?

Disalcid should not be taken if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to salsalate.

Special warnings about Disalcid

Use Disalcid with extreme caution if you have chronic kidney disease or a peptic ulcer.

Salicylates occasionally cause asthma in people who are sensitive to aspirin. Although Disalcid contains a salicylate, it is less likely than aspirin to cause this reaction.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Disalcid

If Disalcid is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Disalcid with the following:

ACE inhibitor-type blood pressure drugs such as Capoten and Vasotec
Acetazolamide (Diamox)
Aspirin and other drugs containing salicylates such as Bufferin and Empirin
Blood-thinning medications such as Coumadin
Medications for gout such as Zyloprim and Benemid
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
Naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn)
Oral diabetes drugs such as Glucotrol and Tolinase
Penicillin (Pen-Vee K)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Steroids such as Deltasone and Decadron
Sulfinpyrazone (Anturane)
Thyroid medications such as Synthroid